The free software movement has come a long way over the past 25+
years. While we still face many challenges ahead for us to create a
world in which it is normal and expected for computer users to have
freedom, we have made steady progress. Right now, however, there is a
potential threat that could put us back years. Microsoft has announced
that if computer makers wish to distribute machines with the Windows 8
compatibility logo, they will have to implement a measure called
"Secure Boot."

When done correctly, "Secure Boot" is designed to protect against
malware by preventing computers from loading unauthorized binary
programs when booting. In practice, this means that computers
implementing it won't boot unauthorized or modified operating systems.
This could be a feature deserving of the name, as long as the /user/
is able to authorize the programs she wants to use, so she can run
free software written and modified by herself or people she trusts.

However, we are concerned that Microsoft and hardware manufacturers
will implement these boot restrictions in a way that will prevent
users from booting anything other than unmodified Windows. In this
case, a better name for the technology would be Restricted Boot, since
such a requirement would be a severe restriction on computer users and
not a security feature at all.

We're looking at a world in which it could become impossible for the
average user to install GNU/Linux on any new computer, so too much is
at stake for us to wait and see if computer manufacturers will do the
right thing. "Secure Boot" could all too easily become a euphemism for
restriction and control by computer makers and Microsoft -- freedom
and security necessitate users being in charge of their own computers.

So please, join us in signing this statement against Restricted Boot,
and consider encouraging your friends, family, and colleagues to do
the same.

If you are part of an organization or company that would like to
prominently show their support, please contact us at campaigns@fsf.org
<mailto:campaigns@fsf.org>.

For your convenience, here is a list of additional articles and
resources related to this statement: